"It is too bad,sir,"he exclaimed,"Just think:I could not get my cup of tea!"
Joao de Sousa did not answer,but looked questioningly at the fat man,who went on:
"You see,it has always been my custom to take a cup of tea after my lunch;just a cup of strong black tea.I was in such a hurry to catch the coach that I did not wait for tea just now.I cannot tell you how I miss it.You see,sir,when a man comes to my age,habits are everything,and it is really dreadful to have to break your habits.Now I know I shall be miserable throughout the journey because I could not have my cup of tea.You are young,sir,but take the advice of a man who is of regular habits.When you once form a steady habit,let nothing put you off it."